What is a Dodge Grand Caravan 5th Gen airbag control module?
The Dodge Grand Caravan 5th Gen airbag control unit, also known as the Occupant Restraint Module (ORC), is your vehicle's central safety unit. It continuously monitors all airbag sensors and seatbelt pretensioners, stores important crash data, and precisely activates the occupant restraint systems in the event of an accident to ensure maximum safety. A properly functioning unit is critical to your safety.
This module is an integral part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). It ensures that all passive safety systems work in a coordinated manner in an emergency.
This crucial component also monitors seat occupancy and belt status. Without a functioning control unit, the entire airbag system cannot function.
Why is the Dodge Grand Caravan 5th Gen airbag control module defective?
A Dodge Grand Caravan 5th Gen airbag control module often fails because it stores crash data after an accident, preventing it from restarting, or it suffers from internal electronic failures caused by aging and voltage spikes. Moisture, corrosion, or improper repairs can also cause failure, requiring immediate repair.
Common causes of failure include internal short circuits or damage after an impact. These units are designed to permanently lock after an accident to prevent reuse without testing.
Therefore, an illuminated airbag warning light often indicates a defect or a faulty module that requires a precise diagnosis. In these cases, repair or replacement is essential to protect vehicle occupants.
Common Error Codes for Dodge Grand Caravan 5th Gen Airbag Control Unit Repair
When repairing the Dodge Grand Caravan 5th Gen airbag control module, specific error codes are crucial for a precise diagnosis of the problem. These codes directly indicate malfunctions within the module itself or its communication, allowing specialized repair shops to quickly identify the cause of the failure and initiate the necessary repair steps.
- B1C27-13: Left Thorax Airbag Circuit Open → Indicates an open circuit in the left side thorax airbag → Often caused by a frayed or broken wiring harness in the seating area.
- B1000: Airbag control unit communication error → A general communication error of the module → Often an indication of a problem with the control unit itself or the CAN bus connection.
- U0171: Loss of communication with front module → Interruption of communication between the central and front airbag modules → This code is a control unit-specific error and requires a precise diagnosis of the network.
- B212C: Control Unit Initialization Error → The airbag control unit cannot boot up or initialize correctly → Often an indicator of an internal defect in the control unit that requires repair or replacement.
What part numbers are available for the Dodge Grand Caravan 5th Gen airbag control unit repair?
For Dodge Grand Caravan 5th Gen airbag control module repairs, there are several specific Mopar OEM part numbers available to ensure exact compatibility with your vehicle. It's crucial to match the number of your existing module, as different models and trim levels require different control modules to ensure safe operation after repair.
Mopar is the original equipment manufacturer of these critical safety components for the Dodge Grand Caravan. The most common and verified OEM part numbers are essential for successful diagnosis and repair.
Check the part number installed on the vehicle carefully to ensure compatibility. The following OEM part numbers are relevant for airbag control units on the 5th generation Dodge Grand Caravan:
- 04686939AF
- 68062118AG
- 5094019AK
- 4686602AJ (also replaces 4686602AH, 4686602AG, 4686602AE, 4686602AI, 4686602AD, 4686602AF)
- 68233535AA
- 04606927AC
An exact part number match is essential for Dodge Grand Caravan 5th Gen airbag control module repair. Replacing or resetting without the correct part number may result in malfunctions or permanent failure.
For a professional repair or replacement, contact a specialized workshop or parts dealer. They can help you find the right part for your vehicle and ensure correct programming.